Frontera

Production Announcement

‘Frontera’ films in northern New Mexico

Independent production taps local crew and northern New Mexico filming locations

SANTA FE —The independent Western short “Frontera” is currently filming in Abiquiú, employing more than 15 New Mexicans.

The 25-minute production took place on location in and around Abiquiú, utilizing northern New Mexico’s landscapes, local crew, and regional talent to support an authentic, place-based story.

Directed by Jack Evans (“The Bear Hunter”) and produced by Fernando MacFarlane (“Sue Thunder”), with additional support from regional partners.

“The script for ‘Frontera’ grew from a long collaboration, shaped by lived experience and memory,” Evans said. “It’s a film about trauma and healing, grounded in the landscape of the desert.”

Set in 1921 following the Mexican Revolution, “Frontera” follows an 18-year-old American who is rescued by a community of refugees in northern Mexico. As he recovers, he confronts his own trauma through his relationship with an exiled curandera.

“‘Frontera’ is rooted in the growing Santa Fe independent film scene,” said Producer Fernando MacFarlane. “Nearly all scenes were shot in New Mexico, with one sequence filmed during a solar eclipse in Coahuila, Mexico.”

“Frontera” features New Mexico talent, including Wyatt Mortenson (“The Homesman”) in his first leading role alongside Diana Patricia Guizado (“El Gato Feo”). The film is produced by Santa Fe–based Another World Entire Productions with support from the Santa Fe Film Institute.

Filming took place in collaboration with Mortenson’s Eaves Movie Ranch, along with support from the Nambé Trading Post and The Frost Foundation. Dar al-Islam in Abiquiú also provided access to the Plaza Blanca canyons and on-site accommodations.

“We are proud to see independent projects like ‘Frontera’ choosing New Mexico and creating opportunities for our local workforce” said Steve Graham, Director of the New Mexico Film Office. “Projects like this highlight local talent and the region’s strong filmmaking network.”

The production employs more than 15 New Mexicans, supporting local crew, businesses, and creative professionals in northern New Mexico.